Fireworks

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While other communities are extinguishing their fireworks displays to save money, Oak Park plans to celebrate Independence Day with a bang.

The village's annual fireworks display will begin at dusk, about 9:15 p.m., on July 4th at the Oak Park and River Forest High School football stadium, just west of East Avenue on Lake Street. The free show is open to the public, with an average attendance of about 25,000, according to sponsor Community Bank of Oak Park-River Forest.

If severe weather disrupts the festivities, the show will be rescheduled for Tuesday, July 5.

A local nonprofit called the Great American Light Show Association presents the show each year, a tradition since 1976, paid for by citizen contributions, with the grand finale underwritten by Wednesday Journal. Indiana-based Mad Bomber Fireworks Productions will fire things up for the second straight year.

Oak Park's annual Fourth of July Parade is set for Monday at 10 a.m., running up Ridgeland Avenue from Longfellow Park (at Ridgeland and Adams) north to Whittier Elementary School, 715 N. Harvey.

Dan, What are the numbers to put on the show? How much does the Bank put up and how much does the WJ put up?

Dan Haley from Wednesday Journal Facebook Verified

Posted: July 6th, 2011 10:50 AM

About those fireworks. Here at the Journal we've had a few comments and e-mails thanking us for underwriting the grand finale. You're welcome. We really enjoy being part of this great event. But, Community Bank is the all-star on the fireworks. They underwrite the vast majority of the cost and have for years. While donations are accepted, the passing of the hat hasn't happened in several years. This really is the bank's gift to the villages. So thanks to our Community Bank.

Brian Crawford from Oak Park

Posted: July 3rd, 2011 9:06 PM

The entire community owes thanks to the Great American Light Show Association, Community Bank and Trust, and Wednesday Journal for this community-unifying event. When the folks with donation containers come through the crowd, please contribute what you can for next year's festivities.

GALA fan

Posted: June 29th, 2011 4:46 PM

Without the sponsorship of Community Bank, there would be no fireworks. (Like Chicago) Who would you have fund this instead?

Bill from Oak Park

Posted: June 29th, 2011 3:31 PM

Why is Community Bank still the sponsor of this event? Shouldn't they be spending their money getting a new management team? I am surprised the FDIC is allowing them to spend money on this frivolous event when they are financially in trouble. I suppose we the tax payers will have to foot this bill down the road when they are closed down.

Resident

Posted: June 29th, 2011 2:43 PM

Dont forget about Les and his Bro

Jim Coughlin

Posted: June 29th, 2011 2:41 PM

No one enjoyed the annual fireworks show more than Bud Corry. I miss that guy!

Spectator from OP

Posted: June 29th, 2011 10:02 AM

I live in 1120 Club Condo Building. Will I be able to have a good view of the fireworks from balcony or better off somewhere else?